appropriations
- Virginia Senate Leader Louise Lucas Indicted on Federal Marijuana and Corruption Charges
Federal prosecutors announced on October 22, 2026, that Virginia State Sen. Louise Lucas and six co-defendants have been indicted on charges including racketeering conspiracy, conspiracy to distribute marijuana, money laundering conspiracy, and related offenses.
- Virginia Bill Defines State Hiring Preference for Terminated Federal Workers
House Bill 494 clarifies a temporary preference requiring state agencies to hire equally qualified candidates terminated from federal jobs over others until January 21, 2029.
- Virginia Subcommittee Advances HB642 on Adult-Use Cannabis Framework
A House subcommittee unanimously advanced a substitute version of HB642 that raises penalties for illegal marijuana sales and revises appointments to the Virginia Cannabis Control Authority board.
- Virginia Lawmakers Advance HB850 on Contractor Safety and Apprenticeship Rules
Amended House Bill 850 would require safety training, compliance records, and apprenticeship participation for contractors on most public capital outlay projects starting in 2027.
- Virginia House Bill Extends Procurement Preference for Local Agricultural Products
House Bill 1086 grants Virginia producers of school nutrition goods an option to match out-of-state bids within 20 percent while extending related preference laws to 2028.